Hidden Sabungeros Discovered at Atong Ang’s Property Draws Ire from Senator Bato dela Rosa

Manila, July 2025 — In a dramatic twist to the ongoing “missing sabungeros” case, authorities have reportedly uncovered several individuals hiding within the premises owned by businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang. The development has reignited controversy surrounding his e‑sabong operations and triggered a strongly worded response from Senator Bato dela Rosa, chair of the Senate’s Public Order and Dangerous Drugs committee.

Discovery Raises Fresh Questions

The recent uncovering of hidden cockfighting participants—referred to as “sabungeros”—inside Atong Ang’s property has stirred renewed concern over possible clandestine activities tied to the broader disappearance of sabungeros across Luzon from 2021 to 2022. While no formal arrest has yet been made, the discovery is being treated as compelling circumstantial evidence by investigators, who suspect it may shed light on how some participants have gone missing after visiting e‑sabong venues.

Atong Ang’s Conspiracy Claims

In the wake of this discovery, Atong Ang has maintained that he’s the target of a deliberate conspiracy intended to tarnish his business and personal reputation. During earlier Senate hearings in 2022, he described the missing sabungeros issue as having been “treated as a guilty verdict” before formal investigations concluded. At that time, the Senate—under Senator Bato’s leadership—had invited Ang for an executive session to investigate claims that videos showed threats against alleged cheating employees, immediately followed by reports of disappearances.

Bato dela Rosa’s Fiery Reaction

Senator Bato, formerly the head of the Philippine National Police, responded with fury upon learning about the hidden sabungeros. Describing the discovery as “unacceptable and deeply troubling,” he accused Ang of attempting to conceal evidence and obstruct public scrutiny.

As chair of the relevant Senate committee, Bato has announced plans to summon Atong Ang again in the next session—this time with a stronger mandate to explain the presence of these individuals on his property. He reiterated that anyone allegedly tied to the disappearances must be held accountable and that privileged positions should not shield individuals from inquiry.

Tensions in the e‑Sabong Sector

This event marks a new turning point in the e‑sabong controversy. The discovery casts doubt on the transparency of operations tied to Atong Ang’s Lucky 8 Star Quest enterprises and amplifies calls for stricter regulatory oversight of online cockfighting platforms.

Notably, Senator Bato’s response underlines a shift toward heightened scrutiny, fueled by the gravity of missing persons allegations and the breakdown of trust among stakeholders. The case continues to prompt discussions around accountability, landowner responsibility, and the fine line between legitimate business and criminal implication.

What’s at Stake

Senate Inquiry Resumes
The committee will ask Ang to address specific questions regarding the identity and status of the discovered individuals and to clarify why they were present on the premises.
Potential Legal Ramifications
Depending on evidence, Ang could face charges related to harboring unregistered individuals, obstructing a government investigation, or deeper criminal allegations if links to abduction are established.
Public Confidence and Regulation
The transparency and operations of e‑sabong enterprises are under renewed examination. Lawmakers and consumer advocates argue that this incident points to deeper, unresolved risks.

Public and Industry Response

Reactions on social media and public forums have been mixed:

Many express anger and demand immediate consequences.
Some urge that the case be allowed to run its course, advocating due process before conclusions are drawn.
Calls are emerging for clearer regulatory frameworks governing online gambling, animal welfare, and venue safety.

Within the industry, operators aligned with Atong Ang have distanced themselves, while others warn that this case could fundamentally reshape how e‑sabong functions in the Philippines.

Summary Table

Issue
Status as of July 2025

Sabungeros discovered
Individuals found hiding in Atong Ang’s property

Atong Ang’s defense
Claims conspiracy; asserts premature judgment of guilt

Senator Bato reaction
Demanded swift Senate questioning; expressed deep frustration

Potential outcomes
Legal investigation, venue searches, evidence collection ongoing

Broader implications
Calls for regulation of e‑sabong; debates on industry transparency

Related Articles for Further Reading

“Atong Ang’s E‑Sabong Empire: From Business Success to Senate Hearings”
“Senate Committee Resumes ‘Missing Sabungeros’ Investigation”
“Bato dela Rosa: From Police Chief to Senate Watchdog on Online Gambling”
“The Legal and Social Implications of E‑Sabong in the Philippines”
“Behind the Disappearances: Community Impact of the Missing Sabungeros Case”